BRPI0713103A2 - FLUID DISPENSING DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

FLUID DISPENSER. The present invention relates to a fluid dispensing apparatus that includes a fluid reservoir and a dispensing assembly. The dispensing assembly that includes a housing and a deformable element that defines a measuring chamber that is configured to receive a predetermined volume of fluid from the fluid reservoir. The deformable element is deformed from a resting position to an ejection position, and the deformation causes a change in the volume of the measuring chamber, which results in a change in the fluid pressure inside the measuring chamber. An increase in fluid pressure within the measurement chamber causes a predetermined volume of fluid within the measurement chamber, and a decrease in fluid pressure within the measurement chamber causes the fluid to be displaced into the chamber measurement from the reservoir.

Description

Report of the Invention Patent for "Fluid Dispensing Apparatus".

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to biological sample processing systems and in particular to a fluid dispensing apparatus that may be used in a biological sample processing system.

Background of the invention

When conducting biological tests, it is often necessary to dispense liquids such as reagents on test slides containing tissue specimens. When a tumor tissue is analyzed, for example, a finely fractionated section of the tissue may be placed on a slide and processed through a variety of steps, including dispensing predetermined amounts of liquid reagents onto the tissue. Automated reagent fluid dispensing devices have been developed so that a sequence of preselected reagents is precisely applied to the test slides.

An example of a known reagent dispensing system is illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 5,232,664 to Krawzac et al. In this system, a reagent dispensing tray may receive numerous reagent containers and may include a means for positioning selected reagent containers on the slides to receive the reagent. An air cylinder or equivalent actuator makes contact with an individual cartridge that moves a spring-loaded displacement element. The spring-loaded displacement element moves within a cylinder thereby reducing the volume of reagent in the cylinder which in turn causes the reagent fluid to be applied to the blades.

A disadvantage associated with such systems is that dispensing systems often use a sliding piston that is in sealing contact with an inner surface of a cylinder. As a result, the shelf life of such systems is limited by wear between the piston and the cylinder. Systems that include a sliding piston and a cylinder configuration also require precise adjustment of the piston seal so that fluid sealing is maintained between the sliding surfaces during changes in the direction of piston travel. In view of these disadvantages, there is a need for a reagent dispensing system that does not depend on a sliding seal between a plunger and a cylinder.

An additional disadvantage associated with conventional reagent dispensing systems is the potential misalignment of individual cartridges within mounting openings of a mounting assembly. In view of this disadvantage, there is a need for a reagent dispensing system that includes cartridges that are formed to self-align within similarly shaped mounting openings.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention mitigates a large extent of the disadvantages noted above and other disadvantages of known fluid dispensing apparatus by providing a fluid dispensing cartridge that can accurately dispense small amounts of fluid without requiring a sliding seal between a sliding piston and a cylinder. One aspect of the present invention involves a disk cartridge.

Fluid thinking includes a fluid reservoir and a dispensing assembly that utilizes a deformable element to create a volumetric change in a measuring chamber. In one embodiment, the dispensing assembly includes metering components such as a first valve assembly and a second valve assembly that control fluid flow into and out of the metering chamber. The deformable element operates in conjunction with valve components to measure a desired volume of fluid from the fluid reservoir within the metering chamber and then eject the metered fluid from the metering chamber out of the cartridge. The measured fluid may be ejected onto any desired target such as a fluid bath or a slide.

In one embodiment, the metering components operate in conjunction with a pump assembly that is actuated by an external force that deforms the deformable element to the ejector position thereby creating a pressure increase within the metering chamber. The increase creates a pressure differential between the metering chamber and the external environment causing the second valve to open, allowing the contents of the metering chamber to be ejected. When external force is removed from the pump assembly, the deformable element is allowed to return to its resting position by creating a pressure differential between the reservoir and the metering chamber. This pressure differential causes the first valve to open, allowing fluid to flow from the reservoir into the measuring chamber.

The deformable element is preferably a diaphragm and a pump assembly displacement element or piston is preferably coupled to the diaphragm such that the movement of the piston deforms the diaphragm. Deformation of the diaphragm to the ejector position causes a volume reduction in the measuring chamber and a resulting increase in pressure. The piston can also be spring-guided to return the diaphragm to rest position. An actuator such as a solenoid may be positioned on the outside of the pump assembly adjacent an exposed portion of the piston so that movement of the solenoid may be used to move the piston.

The fluid dispensing cartridge of the present invention may optionally be used within a fluid dispensing system that includes a plurality of stations in which the fluid dispensing cartridges may be located. Stations preferably include mounting openings that are formed to receive cartridges adjacent to a corresponding external actuator assembly. Although the cartridges may have a gravitational force to settle within their respective mounting openings, optionally, the cartridges are releasably attached to the fluid dispensing apparatus using a mounting assembly. An example of a mounting assembly includes a tab that is located over the cartridge and is received in a slot adjacent to the respective mounting opening. The tab may be wedge-shaped so that as the tab is received by the slot, the adjustment of the tab within the slot becomes tighter.

A further aspect of the present invention involves a fluid dispensing apparatus including the mounting aperture shaped to align similarly to cartridge shapes where the cartridges and apertures have compatible cross-section profiles. In one embodiment, the cartridges and mounting openings include compatible cross-section profiles that only allow the cartridge to be mounted in one orientation.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated from analyzing the detailed description of the following invention, together with the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the context.

Brief Description of the Drawings

FIGURE 1 is a front view of one embodiment of a fluid dispensing apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 2 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 1 taken along line A-A;

FIGURE 3 is an exploded view of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 1 in a fully enclosed configuration.

FIGURE 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 1 in a partially open configuration;

FIGURE 6 is another cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 1, in a partially open configuration;

FIGURE 7 is a front view of one embodiment of a fluid dispensing apparatus in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 7 taken along line E-E;

FIGURE 9 is an exploded view of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 7;

FIGURE 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 7, in a fully closed configuration;

FIGURE 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 7 in a partially open configuration;

FIGURE 12 is another cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid dispensing apparatus of FIGURE 7, in a partially open configuration;

FIGURE 13 is a top view of a fluid dispensing system in which a fluid dispensing apparatus may be used in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the fluid dispensing system of FIGURE 13;

FIGURE 15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a fluid dispensing system in which a fluid dispensing apparatus is mounted in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 16 is a top view of a portion of a fluid dispensing system;

FIGURE 17 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a fluid dispensing system incorporating a fluid dispensing apparatus according to the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In the following paragraphs, the present invention will be described in detail by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout this description, the preferred embodiment and examples shown should be considered as exemplifiers rather than limitations on the present invention. As used herein, the "present invention" refers to any of the embodiments of the invention described herein and any equivalents. Furthermore, reference to various features of the "present invention" throughout this document does not mean that all claimed embodiments or methods must include the referenced features.

FIGURES 1 to 3 show a preferred embodiment of a fluid dispensing apparatus 10 or a cartridge according to the present invention. Fluid dispensing cartridge 10 generally includes a fluid reservoir 12 which is in fluid communication with a fluid dispensing assembly 14. Fluid reservoir 12 is generally a container that is configured to contain a quantity of fluid. pre-terminated fluid such as reagent or rinsing fluid. Preferably, the reservoir 12 is a rigid housing that is constructed of a fluid impervious material. Fluid reservoir 12 may also include a bladder or a replaceable fluid liner (not shown). It should also be noted that the reservoir may be constructed of any material suitable for containing liquid such as a chemically inert plastic, for example polyethylene or polypropylene. The reservoir material is preferably gas impermeable to prevent ambient air from contaminating the contents thereby extending the shelf life of the fluid contained therein. In one embodiment, where a liner or bladder is used, a substantially rigid cover supporting the liner or bladder may be included. Such a rigid cover can also provide a grip surface for handling and a marking surface so that information can be recorded on the cartridge, for example by writing on the surface or affixing a label.

The reservoir 12 includes a pressure valve 16 which equals the pressure within the reservoir 12 with the ambient air pressure. In particular, the pressure valve 16 may be used to stabilize the pressure within the reservoir 12 such that a vacuum is not formed within the reservoir 12 after a portion of the contents of the reservoir 12 is dispensed through the dispensing assembly 14. Pressure valve 16 may be any valve allowing fluid to enter reservoir 12. As shown, pressure valve 16 may be a one-way "duckbill" control valve. It should be noted that any valve may be used by pressure valve 16, such as passive control valves or check valve.

Fluid dispensing assembly 14 generally includes a pump assembly 20, a metering chamber 21, a reservoir valve 22, a nozzle valve assembly 23 and a nozzle 19. The pump assembly further includes , a movable pump piston 25, a piston spring 26 and a deformable member such as a diaphragm 27 which are housed between a pump housing 24 or a cap and a portion 28 of the dispensing mounting housing 29. A portion 28 of dispensing mounting housing 29 and pump housing 24 are configured to be coupled together and collectively define a pump cavity 30 housing piston 25, piston spring 26 and diaphragm 27. In the present embodiment , the pump housing 24 is held in place by a plurality of flaps extending from the dispensing mounting housing 29, so that the pump housing 24 can be snapped in place with the diaphragm 27 interposed between the housing. 24 and housing 29. It will be appreciated that the pump housing 24 may be coupled to the dispensing mounting housing 29 by any mechanism known in the art, for example, housing 24 may be welded or welded. in accommodation 29.

Diaphragm 27 is a substantially flexible member that can be deformed between a rest position and an ejector position. Diaphragm 27 includes a first mounting portion 31 that is configured to be coupled to portion 28 of dispensing mounting housing .29 and a second mounting portion 32 that is configured to mount an inner end 33 of piston 25. As shown in Figure 2, the diaphragm 27 is in the resting position which is generally concave in shape. In the rest position, the inner concave surface of the diaphragm 27 defines a displacement space 34 which forms part of the measuring chamber 21. Preferably, the first mounting portion of the diaphragm 27 is fixedly and fluidly coupled and sealed to portion 28. dispensing mounting housing 29 so that fluid within the metering chamber 21 is prevented from flowing past the diaphragm 27 towards the piston 25. As will be further described below in detail, due to the fact that the first mounting portion 31 is stationary relative to the dispensing mounting housing 29 and the metering chamber and the diaphragm 27 is deformable, pump assembly 20 does not require a sliding fluid seal to create pressure changes within the chamber Measurement

Pump piston 25 is slidably housed within pump housing 24. A portion of piston 25 extends out of pump housing 24 so that a force may be applied to the outer portion of piston 25 to actuate the piston 25. dispensing assembly 14. Inner end 33 of pump piston 25 is coupled to second mounting portion 32 of diaphragm 27. Piston 25 and diaphragm 27 are coupled so that the second portion of mounting 32 of diaphragm 27 change places by relocating piston 25. Diaphragm 27 and piston 25 may be coupled. As shown, the second mounting portion. 32 of diaphragm 27 includes an annular flange 38 that is received within a circumferential channel 39 of piston 25.

The outer portion of the piston 25 includes an outer end 35 extending from the pump cavity 30 through an opening 36 of the pump housing 24. In the present embodiment, the length between the inner end 33 and the outer end of the piston 25 is selected. such that the outer end 35 remains exposed when the diaphragm 27 is moved between a rest position and the eject position (shown in FIGURE 5 and described below). The outer end 35 of the piston .25 provides a surface for external forces to be applied to the step 25 by moving the diaphragm 27 between a rest position and the ejector position.

Spring 26 may be used to position piston 25 when there is no external force applied to piston 25. Spring 26 is interposed between the first mounting portion 31 of diaphragm 27 and a spring contact flange 37 of piston 25. In the embodiment shown, spring 26 is configured to be under compression and orient piston 25 away from pump portion 28 of dispensing mounting housing 29 causing diaphragm 27 to be in rest position. It should be noted that spring 26 may be configured to orient piston 25 in any desired direction. It should further be appreciated that spring 26 may be replaced by a plurality of spring elements, if desired. It should also be noted that the diaphragm 27 may be configured to provide a spring force orienting the piston 25 in a desired position. It should further be noted that piston 25 and spring 26 may be omitted so that external force is directly applied to diaphragm 27.

Metering chamber 21 is a cavity configured to hold liquid which is located between reservoir valve 22, diaphragm 27 and nozzle valve assembly 23. Metering chamber 21 provides a space for holding a predetermined volume of fluid having fluid from reservoir 12 into dispensing assembly 14 prior to being ejected from cartridge 10. Measuring chamber 21 may be of any desired size or shape. Preferably, the measuring chamber 21 has a volume that is very close to the volume dispensed during each cartridge dispensing cycle 10.

The flow of fluid from reservoir 12 into metering chamber 21 is regulated by reservoir valve 22 which is generally between metering chamber 21 and reservoir 12. At present, reservoir valve 22 is a passive one-way "duckbill" check valve. The deformable pallets of the duckbill valve seal together when the valve is closed and separate from each other to form a vacuum when the valve is open. The properties of the reservoir valve 12 are chosen from

enable fluid communication between reservoir 12 and metering chamber 21 when a desired pressure differential is created between reservoir 12 and metering chamber 21. As further described in detail below, the actuation of the pump assembly 20 is used to change the fluid pressure within the metering chamber 21 such that the fluid pressure in the metering chamber 21 differs from the reservoir fluid pressure 12 and the surrounding environment. In the present embodiment, valve 22 is configured to close when there is a minimum or no difference in pressure between reservoir 12 and metering chamber 21 or when the pressure in reservoir 12 is less than the pressure in chamber. Measurement 21. When the pressure inside reservoir 12 exceeds the fluid pressure in metering chamber 21 by a selected boundary difference, the reservoir valve 22 opens. It should be noted that the reservoir valve 22 may be any passive or active valve known in the art. Such active valves include solenoid valves and any other actively controlled valve known in the art and the position of the active valve can be automatically or manually controlled via a valve controller.

An optional filter 44 is included adjacent to reservoir valve 22. Filter 44 is configured to filter fluid before it flows from reservoir 12 into reservoir valve 22. As shown, the filter is an overcap that includes narrow grooves that are sized to prevent runoff residues within the reservoir valve 22 and the filter 44 retains the reservoir valve in the housing 29. However, it should be noted that any filter device may be used such as e.g. For example, a filter made of mesh or foam.

The nozzle valve assembly 23 is used to regulate the flow of metering chamber 21 out of cartridge 10. The nozzle valve assembly 23 is generally located between the metering chamber 21 and nozzle 19. In the present embodiment, the mounting No. 23 is a passive valve including a diaphragm 52 and a valve spring 56. The diaphragm 52 is a flexible element including a through-opening 53 and a peak 54, and is interposed between the dispensing assembly 29 and nozzle 19. The perimeter of diaphragm 52 is coupled to a sealing surface 58 included in the dispensing mounting housing 29 so that fluid from within the metering chamber 21 is prevented from flowing between the surface 58 and diaphragm 52. The through aperture 53 is aligned with a portion of the metering chamber 21 so that fluid can flow from the metering chamber 21 through the diaphragm 52 and into a veneer chamber. valve 57, which has a volume defined by the lower surface of the diaphragm 52 and the upper surface of the nozzle 19.

Peak 54 is a cone-shaped protrusion extending from a surface of diaphragm 52 toward mouthpiece 19. When fluid dispensing apparatus 14 is in both the resting and filling state, described in more detail below, the peak extends at least partially inwardly into a nozzle fluid conduit 60 such that the outer surface of the peak 54 is sealed to the surface of the fluid conduit 60. The location of the seal between the peak 54 and nozzle 19 is preferably within conduit 60 so that the volume of space between the seal and conduit outlet 60 is minimized. Minimizing volume reduces the likelihood of liquid evaporating into space that could cause conduit 60 to become clogged. It should be noted that peak 54 may be configured in any manner suitable to seal conduit surface 60. If, for example, fluid conduit 60 has a quadrangular cross-sectional shape, peak 54 may be constructed of same with a square cross-section as peak 54 created in the shape of a pyramid or a truncated pyramid.

The spring 56 is located in a cavity 68 which is defined by the dispensing mounting housing 29 and the diaphragm 52, and an opening 69 is provided so that air can escape from the cavity 68 during compression of the spring 56. Preferably, spring 56 is compressed so that it peaks peak 54 into conduit 60 when the fluid pressure within the metering chamber is at or near ambient pressure and is selected to prevent dripping when the fluid is under this pressure. However, spring 56 is also selected such that an increase in fluid pressure within metering chamber 21 and valve chamber 57 caused by actuation of pump assembly 20 causes upward movement of at least one. diaphragm portion 52 toward dispensing mounting housing 29 against spring guiding force 56. Peak 54 moves with diaphragm 52 away from nozzle 19, which removes the fluid seal between the peak 54 and conduit 60. As a result, the pressurized fluid becomes free to flow through the nozzle conduit 60 past peak 54.

The properties of diaphragm 52 and spring 56 are chosen such that the nozzle valve assembly 23 permits fluid communication between the metering chamber 21 and the nozzle fluid conduit 60, when a desired pressure differential between the chamber 21 and the external environment is created. In the present embodiment, spring 56 is configured to hold diaphragm 52 in a closed position (i.e. no fluid communication between measuring chamber 21 and conduit 60) when there is minimal or no pressure difference between metering chamber 21 and the environment. As further described below, the actuation of the pump assembly 20 alters the fluid pressure within the metering chamber 21 and the valve chamber 57 so that the pressure differs from the fluid pressure of the external environment. When the force acting on the fluid diaphragm 52 within the nozzle valve chamber 57 exceeds the force acting on the spring diaphragm 56, the diaphragm 52 is moved upward so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the nozzle. diaphragm peak 54 and the inner surface of conduit 60. As a result, fluid is allowed to flow from metering chamber 21 through conduit 60. In addition, it should be noted that an active valve may be used, such as a solenoid or other active valve, and the position of the active valve can be manually or automatically controlled via a valve control. Similar to the reservoir valve assembly 22, the nozzle valve assembly 23 may be of any actively or passively controlled valve known in the art.

The nozzle 19 and conduit 60 configuration may be selected to create any desired flow assignments outside the cartridge 10. For example, the dispensing assembly 14 may be configured to provide a directed fluid stream, large spray or droplet. - fluid cells. It should be noted that pressurized fluid flow assignments through the nozzle 19 can be selected as desired by selecting the fluid conduit shape 60 and cutting the pump assembly 20 to create an increase in desired pressure within the measuring chamber 21. The nozzle 19 can be made of any material and is preferably constructed of a chemically inert hydrophobic hard plastic material so that a last drop of liquid can be avoided after ejection. In addition, as shown in FIGURE 3, the nozzle may be coupled directly to the flap dispensing mounting housing 29 so that the nozzle 19 is snap fit into place. It should be noted that the nozzle 19 may be alternatively or additionally mechanically coupled to the dispensing mounting housing 29 by adhesive and / or welding. It should be further noted that the nozzle may be coupled to the fluid dispensing housing 29 through the diaphragm 52.

After mounting the cartridge 10, the reservoir may be filled with a reagent or other liquid as desired. Generally, immediately after the initial filling of reservoir 12, the measuring chamber 21 is substantially empty. To prepare the cartridge 10 for use, dispensing assembly 14 may be prepared by actuating pump assembly 20. As will be appreciated from the description below, the actuation of pump assembly 20 causes fluid pressure within the chamber. 21 increases, causing the contents of the measuring chamber 21 to be ejected through the nozzle 19. During preparation, the air that initially occupies the measuring chamber 21 is ejected and replaced by the reservoir liquid 12.

Referring to FIGURES 4 through 6, fluid dispensing assembly operation 14. During operation, fluid dispensing assembly 14 is configured in a sleep state (i.e., fully closed), a ejector state (i.e. partially open with nozzle valve open) or a fill state (i.e. partially open with reservoir valve open). Dispensing assembly 14 is in a quiescent state when no external force is applied to piston 25 of pump assembly 20. In this state, reservoir valve 22 and nozzle valve assembly 23 are closed. and there is no flow within the dispensing assembly 14 of the reservoir 12 or outside the dispensing assembly 14 of the measuring chamber 21. In addition, the diaphragm 27 is in the rest position, the displacement space 34 has a maximum volume and the spring 26 is under compression, urging piston 25 away from metering chamber 21. In this embodiment, when dispensing assembly 14 is at rest, the fluid pressure within reservoir 12 and metering chamber 21 is approximately equal to the external fluid pressure.

Referring to FIGURE 5, the dispensing assembly 14 may be placed in the ejector state by applying an external force to the piston 25 that is sufficient to overcome the force exerted on the piston 25 by the spring 26. The force causes the piston 25 moves in the direction of arrow B. Movement of piston 25 in the direction of arrow B causes deformation of diaphragm 27 and transforms it from a resting position in the concave shape shown in FIGURE 4 to a substantially ejecting position. The deformation of diaphragm 27 reduces the volume of travel space 34 and metering chamber 21, which increases the fluid pressure within metering chamber 21. Reservoir valve 22 remains closed in response to the increase in fluid pressure within the metering chamber 21. The nozzle valve assembly 23, however, is configured to open when there is a sufficient increase in fluid pressure. As a result, the pressurized fluid within the metering chamber 21 is ejected through the nozzle 19 as shown by arrow C.

Referring to FIGURE 6, after external force on piston 25 is removed, the dispensing assembly 14 enters the fill state. During ejection, piston 25 changes position and spring 26 is compressed in reaction to external force. By removing the external force, the compressive force of spring 26 causes piston 25 to move away from metering chamber 21 in the direction of arrow D. Movement of piston 25 in this direction causes transformation of the diaphragm 27 from the eject position to the rest position. This deformation results in an increase in the volume of the displacement space 34, which creates a partial vacuum (ie a reduction in pressure within the measuring chamber 21 below the fluid pressure in the reservoir 12 and the external pressure) inside the metering chamber 21. Partial vacuum causes reservoir valve 22 to open when a sufficient pressure differential is reached and fluid is allowed to flow from reservoir 12 into the metering chamber. 21, as shown by arrows E. At the same time, the nozzle valve assembly 23 closes due to the combined force applied to diaphragm 52 by spring 56 being greater than the force caused by ambient fluid pressure. in this diaphragm 52. In this configuration, fluid is allowed to flow from reservoir 12 into the metering chamber 21 until the pressure from within the metering chamber 21 is substantially equal to the dent fluid pressure. reservoir valve 12. The reservoir valve 22 closes when the pressure from within the metering chamber 21 is substantially equal to the fluid pressure within the reservoir 12.

FIGURES 7 and 8 show another embodiment of a fluid dispensing cartridge according to the present invention. It should be noted that the fluid dispensing cartridge 110 uses components identical or similar to those of the previously described embodiment and such components are indicated by similar reference numerals. Fluid Dispensing Cartridge 110 generally includes a fluid reservoir 112 and a fluid dispensing assembly 114 which is in communication with fluid reservoir 112. Fluid reservoir 112 is generally a container that is configured to hold a fluid reservoir. predetermined amount of a fluid such as a reagent or rinsing fluid. It should be noted that fluid reservoir 112 may be constructed as described above with respect to the above embodiment.

Reservoir 112 also includes a pressure valve 116 allowing fluid to enter reservoirs 112 and is used to stabilize pressure within reservoir 112 so that a vacuum does not form within reservoir 112 after dispensing a portion. the contents of the reservoir 112 by dispensing assembly 114.

Fluid dispensing assembly 114 generally includes a pump assembly 120, a metering chamber 121, a reservoir valve assembly 122, a nozzle valve assembly 123, and a nozzle 119. With the exception of reservoir valve assembly 122 of the nozzle valve assembly 123 and nozzle 119, the components of the fluid dispensing assembly 114 are similar to those described above and will not be fully described again in detail. Pump assembly 120 includes a movable pump piston 125, a piston spring 126 and a diaphragm 127, which are housed between a pump housing 124 and a portion 128 of a dispensing mounting housing 129.

Diaphragm 127 is a substantially flexible element that can be deformed between a rest position and an ejector position. As shown in FIGURE 2, the diaphragm 127 is in the resting position, in which it is generally shaped like a concave bowl and defines a displacement space 134 that forms part of the measuring chamber 121.

Pump piston 125 is slidably housed within pump housing 124 and a portion of piston 125 extends out of pump housing 124 so that a force may be applied to the outer portion of piston 125 to actuate the mounting. 114. Piston 125 and diaphragm 127 are coupled so that a portion of 30 diaphragm 127 changes position with piston 125 translation. Spring 126 positions piston 125 away from metering chamber 121 when no external force is applied. to piston 125, which places diaphragm 127 in a resting position.

The metering chamber 121 is a fluid chamber located between the reservoir valve assembly 122, the diaphragm 127 and the nozzle valve assembly 123. The metering chamber 121 provides a holding space for a predetermined volume. of fluid that has flowed from reservoir 112 before being ejected from cartridge 110.

Reservoir valve assembly 122 regulates fluid flow from reservoir 112 within metering chamber 121, and valve assembly 122 is generally located between metering chamber 121 and reservoir 112. In the present embodiment reservoir valve assembly 122 is a passive one-way check valve that includes a piston 145 and a piston spring 146. The piston 145 is movable between a sealing position and an open position, and the piston spring 146 directs piston 145 to the sealing position. Piston 145 and piston spring 146 are mounted within

a reservoir valve chamber 147 which is collectively defined by the dispensing mounting housing 129 and reservoir valve overcap 148. Overcap 148 includes a reagent conduit 149 that is configured to provide fluid communication between the reservoir. 112 and metering chamber 121 when the piston 145 is in the open position. Overcap 148 includes a sealing surface 150 that is configured to selectively tangent a sealing surface 151 on valve piston 145 when it is in the sealing position to prevent fluid communication between reservoir 112 and metering chamber 121. It should be noted that the reservoir valve assembly 122 may be any passive or active (i.e. actively controlled) valve known in the art.

The properties of spring 146 are chosen such that the reservoir valve assembly 122 permits fluid communication between the reservoir 112 and the metering chamber 121 when a desired pressure differential between the reservoir 112 and the metering chamber 121 It is created. In the present embodiment, spring 126 is configured to orient piston 145 to the sealing position (i.e., so that there is no fluid communication between reservoir 112 and metering chamber 121) when there is little or no difference in pressure between reservoir 112 and metering chamber 121 or when the pressure in reservoir 112 is less than the pressure in metering chamber 121. As further described below, the actuation of pump assembly 20 may be used to change the fluid pressure within the metering chamber 121 so that the pressure in the metering chamber 121 can differ from the reservoir fluid pressure 121. When the combined force on the piston 145 caused by the spring 126 and the fluid pressure within the chamber measurement 121 is less than the exerted fluid pressure force from reservoir 112 on piston 145, piston 145 is moved downward toward metering chamber 121 such that a gap is formed between the sealing surface 150 and the sealing surface 151. As a result, fluid is allowed to flow from the reservoir 112 into the metering chamber 121. In particular, when reservoir internal pressure 112 exceeds the fluid pressure in metering chamber 121 by a selected boundary difference, reservoir valve assembly 122 opens. It should be noted that the piston 145 of the reservoir valve assembly 122 may be replaced by a ball or any other element including a sealing surface with a sealing surface 150 of the valve overcap. In addition, it should be noted that an active valve can be used such as a solenoid or other actively controlled valve and the position of the active valve can be manually or automatically controlled via a valve control.

Nozzle valve assembly 123 regulates fluid flow from metering chamber 121 and out of cartridge 110 through nozzle 119. Nozzle valve assembly 123 is generally located between metering chamber 121 and nozzle 119. Similarly to the reservoir valve assembly 122, the nozzle valve assembly 123 can be any passive or actively controlled valve known in the art. In the present embodiment, the nozzle valve assembly 123 is a passive one-way check valve that includes a valve piston 155 and a valve spring 156 which are housed within the nozzle valve chamber 157 and collectively defined by dispensing mounting housing .129 and nozzle 119. A sealing surface 158 is included in the dispensing mounting housing 129 adjacent to the piston 155 which is configured to selectively tangent a sealing surface 159 enclosed over an upper end of the piston. 155

The properties of spring 156 are chosen such that the nozzle valve assembly 123 permits fluid communication between the metering chamber 121 and a nozzle fluid conduit 160 when a desired pressure differential between the metering chamber 121 and the external environment is created. In the present embodiment, spring 156 is configured to be in a closed position (i.e. so that there is no fluid communication between measuring chamber 121 and conduit 160) when there is minimal or no pressure difference between the measuring chamber 121 and the environment, or when the external pressure is greater than the pressure in the metering chamber 121. The actuation of the pump assembly 120 alters the fluid pressure within the metering chamber 121 so that the pressure from within the metering chamber measurement 121 differs from the external ambient fluid pressure. When the combined force on piston 155, caused by spring 156 and external pressure, is less than the force exerted on piston 155 from the fluid pressure within the metering chamber .121, piston 155 is moved down toward nozzle 119 such that a gap is formed between sealing surface 158 and sealing surface 159. As a result, fluid is allowed to flow from metering chamber 121 through conduit 160 of nozzle 119. Note that an active valve can be used as a solenoid or other active valve, and the position of the active valve can be manually or automatically controlled via a valve controller.

The operation of fluid dispensing assembly 114 is illustrated in FIGURES 10-12. Similar to the embodiment described above, fluid dispensing assembly 114 is configured in a resting, ejecting or filling state during the operation. Reservoir valve assembly 122 and nozzle valve assembly 123 are closed when the dispensing assembly 114 is in a rest state, shown in FIGURE 10. As a result, there is no fluid flow either within the dispensing assembly 114 of reservoir 112 and as outside dispensing assembly 114 from metering chamber 121. In this state, diaphragm 127 is in the rest position and travel space 134 has a maximum volume. Additionally, spring 126 is under compression such that piston 125 is urged away from metering chamber 121.

Referring to FIGURE 11, the dispensing assembly 114 is ejected by applying an external force to step 125. The force causes piston 125 to move in the direction of arrow F. Piston movement 125 in the direction of arrow F causes diaphragm 127 to deform to a substantially flat ejector position. Deformation of diaphragm 127 reduces the volume of travel space 134 and metering chamber 121, which increases fluid pressure within metering chamber 121. Reservoir valve assembly 122 remains closed in reaction to the increase in However, the nozzle valve assembly 123 is configured to open when there is a sufficient increase in fluid pressure within the metering chamber 121. As a result, the pressurized fluid within the metering chamber 121. measurement 121 is ejected through the nozzle 119 as shown by arrow G.

After the external force is removed from the piston 125, the dispensing assembly 114 enters the fill state shown in FIGURE 12. Upon removal of the external force, the compressive force of the cylinder 126 causes the piston 125 move away from the measuring chamber 121 in the direction of the arrow Η, which causes the diaphragm 127 to shift from the ejector position to the resting position. This deformation results in an increase in the volume of travel space 134, which creates a partial vacuum within the metering chamber 121. This vacuum causes the reservoir valve assembly 122 to open when a sufficient pressure differential is reached and fluid is allowed to flow from reservoir 112 into metering chamber 121 as shown by arrows I. At the same time, nozzle valve assembly 123 closes due to the fact that the combined force by pressure external fluid and spring 156 applied to piston 150, be greater than the force caused by fluid pressure from within the metering chamber 121 on piston 155. In this configuration, fluid is allowed to flow from reservoir 112 to inside the metering chamber 121 until the pressure inside the metering chamber 121 is substantially equal to the fluid pressure inside the reservoir 112. When the inside pressure of the metering chamber .121 is substantially equal to the fluid pressure within the reservoir .112, the reservoir valve assembly 122 closes under the influence of the spring 146.

Fluid dispensing cartridges may also be used in conjunction with an extensive fluid dispensing system, such as those described below with respect to FIGURES 13 and 14. In particular, the cartridge optionally includes an alignment surface 61 and a shoulder 62 and cartridge 110 include an alignment surface 161 and a shoulder 162, which are useful for properly orienting the cartridge within the system. As will be described in further detail below, the respective alignment surface interfaces with an opening in the system so that the fluid conduit of the respective nozzle can be easily aligned with a desired fluid dispensing target. Additionally, the shoulder may be used to control the distance between the nozzle and the fluid dispensing target. Cartridges 10 and 110 may be manufactured (i.e. machined or molded) so that the alignment surfaces and respective shoulders have poor tolerance for precise cartridge alignment within a large cartridge system. Additional mounting and / or alignment features may also be included with the cartridges. For example, cartridge 10 also includes an alignment surface 68 that is configured to tangent a portion of a dispensing system. In addition, the cartridge 110 optionally includes a mounting tab 163 which will be described in more detail below with respect to FIGURES 15 and 16. It should be clear that any form of alignment aid may be used. so that it can assist in positioning the cartridge as desired for use in the respective fluid dispensing system.

FIGURES 13 and 14 show an exemplary embodiment of a fluid dispensing system 70 incorporating one or more fluid dispensing cartridges according to the present invention. System 70 generally includes a cartridge mounting assembly 71 and a sample holder assembly 72. A cartridge mounting assembly 71 includes a plurality of stations 73 in which fluid dispensing cartridges 10 are mounted. Stations 73 preferably include mounting apertures 74 which are configured to receive and position fluid dispensing cartridges adjacent an actuator assembly 75. It should be understood that any form of fluid dispensing system 70 can be used so that you can receive the cartridge and perform the dispensing assembly to dispense reagents as desired.

The fluid dispensing system 70 also includes a plurality of receiving elements 76 mounted on the sample holder assembly 72. The receiving elements 76 may be any item desired to dispense the fluids from the cartridges 10. Examples of receiving elements Suitable fittings include slide retention tray, sample containers and mixing baths. Preferably, the receiving elements 76 are microscope slide holding trays containing slides with tissue samples positioned thereon, with the slides positioned downwardly on the respective tray 76. In such a system, The reagent from a fluid dispensing apparatus 10 is not dispensed onto the slide or sample containing it, but is instead dispensed onto a receiving surface of the slide tray 76 and optionally flows as through pressure differentials. induced or capillary vacuum under the blade that is positioned on the blade tray 76. Optionally, the receiving members 76 may be mounted on heating blocks 77 which are configured to provide selective heating of the blades or other portions of the blades. receiving elements 76. The heating blocks 77 may optionally be spring loaded to improve contact between the receiving elements 76 and one or more heating blocks 77.

The receiving element holder assembly 72 is generally positioned below the cartridge mounting assembly 71 so that gravity can be used to release the fluids from the cartridges 10 to the receiving elements 76 as described below. Preferably, the cartridge mounting assembly 71 is movable relative to the stationary receiving element holder assembly 72 so that the cartridges 10 may be positioned to dispense fluid over any desired receiving element 76. In an alternate embodiment, both the cartridge mounting assembly 71 and the sample holder assembly 72 are movable relative to one another so that fluid dispensing is achieved by relative movement of both. As shown in FIGURE 13, the receiver elements 76 may all be the same as microscope slides or, alternatively, the receiver elements 76 may include different types of items such as microscope slides and sample containers.

Cartridge mounting assembly 71 may be rotated such that the selected fluid dispensing cartridges 10 may be positioned adjacent to actuators 78, 79 and 80 of actuator assembly 75. Alternatively, an actuator such as the type shown as Actuators 78, 79 and 80 may be positioned adjacent to each cartridge 10 so that rotation of the cartridge mounting assembly 71 is not required to actuate a specific cartridge 10. The mounting of actuator 75 can be any actuator device that drives the cartridge 10 to emit a controlled amount of fluid. For example, actuator assembly 75 may include a plurality of linear actuators such as solenoids, which are aligned with outer end 35 of pump piston 25 such that movement of the actuator employs force to move pump piston 25 in. of the pump assembly 20.

Preferably, the cartridge mounting assembly 71 may be relocated or rotated relative to the sample holder assembly 72 so that an individual cartridge 10 may be selectively positioned on top of any receiving element 76. Since cartridge 10 is positioned on top of a selected receiver member 76, actuator assembly 75 drives cartridge 10 to eject a controlled amount of fluid onto the receiver member 76.

As shown in FIGURES 13 and 14, the cartridge mounting assembly 71 may be rotatably coupled to a support member 81 and the actuator assembly 75 may be fixedly attached to the support member 81 such that the cartridges 10 may be rotated relative to the actuator assembly 75. Preferably, the support member 81 may be moved horizontally and thus the cartridges 10 may be rotated or relocated, relative to the stationary receptor elements 76. In this manner, a chosen cartridge 10 may be selectively positioned on top of any receiving element 76.

As noted in the illustrated embodiment, actuator assembly 75 may optionally include three actuators 78, 79, and 80, used to dispense fluid over respective rows 82, 83, and 84 of receiver elements 76. In operation, actuator 78 is adjusted. to dispense fluids over the receiving elements 76 in row 82, driver 79 is set to dispense fluids over the receiving elements 76 in row 83 and driver 80 is adjusted to dispense fluids over the receiving elements 76 in row 84. Of course, As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, numerous receptor and / or actuator elements may be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention.

As shown in FIGURE 14, system 70 optionally includes supply containers 85, waste containers 86 and valves 87. Supply containers 85 may be used to hold liquids such as rinse water from receiving elements 76. or reagents that may be dispensed through a fluid dispensing assembly included with system 70. Valves 87 may include keys for directing liquid flow through system 70, such as for rinsing receiver elements 76. In addition, valves 87 may be used to direct the flow of liquids into waste containers 86 after liquids are used to rinse receiver elements 76.

Preferably, the shape of the cartridges 10 is selected such that the cartridge may be installed only in one orientation on the cartridge mounting assembly 71. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge 10 taken through the alignment surface 61 may be substantially The trapezoidal and the mounting openings 74 in the cartridge mounting assembly 71 are similarly formed, thereby limiting the installation of the cartridges 10 in one orientation. In addition, one or more keys 66 may be included and are received within complementary features of the mounting openings 74. FIGURES 13 and 14 show examples of substantially trapezoidal cross-section cartridges 10 which are adapted to fit together. with substantially trapezoidal mounting openings 74 (as shown in FIGURE 13). In another embodiment, the mounting openings 74 and the cartridges 10 have other similarly oriented shapes or include orientation features such as a tab and a slot, which limit the installation of the cartridge 10 in one orientation.

Referring to FIGURES 15 and 16, an optional mounting feature included on cartridge 110 will be described. The mounting feature may be used to releasably secure a cartridge 110 within a corresponding mounting aperture 74 of the cartridge mounting assembly 71. As shown, the cartridge 110 includes a mounting flap 163 which may be used to lock cartridge 110 in place after being aligned within a large system. As shown, the mounting tab 163 generally has a cross-section in the shape of the letter Τ. The dimensions of the outer portion 164 and / or the inner portion 165 may vary in length so that a friction fit between the mounting tab 163 and a mounting slot 67 included in the cartridge mounting assembly 71 can become tighter as the mounting tab 163 is later inserted into the slot 67.

Referring to FIGURE 17, actuator assembly 75 is preferably driven by use of a controller 90 and control switches 91 which can be used to actuate either actuator 78, 79, and 80. Preferably, controller 90 is a programmable computer. The controller can also be integrated with a main controller or a control system by a fluid dispensing system 70 and the step programming for actuating drives 78, 79 and 80 can be included in a main process program. of fabric. Controller 90 can be any device that causes actuator assembly 75 to be activated manually or automatically. Additionally, the controller 90 may be allocated to move relative to the cartridge mounting assembly 71. Alternatively, the controller 90 may be allocated to move relative to the cartridge mounting assembly 71 and a wireless or hard wired communication link 92 may be provided between controller 90 and driver assembly 75. Once triggered, driver assembly 75 employs a mechanical force 93 in pump assembly 20 of cartridge 10 to induce dispensing assembly 14 dispensing a jet or fluid drip 94 onto the receiving member 76.

Thus, it is observed that a fluid dispensing reagent cartridge is provided. The person skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be practiced by other preferred embodiments which are set forth in this description for illustrative and non-limiting purposes and the present invention is limited only by the following claims. It is noted that embodiments equivalent to the particular embodiments discussed in this disclosure may also be practiced in the invention.

Claims (22)

1. fluid dispensing cartridge comprising a fluid reservoir; and a dispensing assembly fluidly coupled to the fluid reservoir comprising: a dispensing housing; and a deformable element; wherein the dispensing housing and the collectively deformable element define a measuring chamber and the deformable element is configured to be deformed from a rest position corresponding to a first volume of the measuring chamber to a position ejector position corresponding to a second volume of the measuring chamber which is smaller than the first volume of the measuring chamber. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 1 further comprising a reservoir valve located between the fluid reservoir and the metering chamber which is configured to allow fluid to flow from the metering reservoir to the measuring chamber. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 2, further comprising a nozzle valve located between the metering chamber and an outlet of the dispensing assembly which is configured to allow fluid to flow from the metering chamber to outside the dispensing assembly. A fluid dispensing cartridge as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a fluid nozzle coupled to the dispensing assembly, the nozzle comprising a fluid conduit defining an outlet of the dispensing assembly. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the deformable member is a diaphragm which is substantially concave in the resting position and substantially flat in the ejector position. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 1 further comprising a one-way valve coupled to the fluid reservoir which is configured to allow fluid to flow into the reservoir from the environment. Fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the deformable element is inclined to the rest position. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the dispensing assembly includes a piston coupled to a portion of the deformable element and is configured such that the piston translation deforms the deformable element between the resting position and the ejecting position. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the reservoir valve is a one-way valve configured to allow fluid to flow from the reservoir into the dispensing assembly and the dispensing valve. Nozzle is a one-way valve configured to allow fluid to flow from the dispensing assembly out of the cartridge. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 2, further comprising a filter interposed between the reservoir valve and the fluid reservoir. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the filter is a cap retaining the reservoir valve in the dispensing housing. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 3 further comprising a fluid nozzle coupled to the dispensing assembly, the nozzle comprising a fluid conduit defining an outlet of the dispensing assembly and the valve. nozzle forms a seal against a fluid conduit wall. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the fluid nozzle is constructed from a hydrophobic material. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 1 further comprising a mounting portion having a horizontal cross-sectional shape. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the mounting portion is configured to be received in a similarly shaped receiving assembly in a predetermined orientation. A fluid dispensing cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the horizontal cross-sectional shape is substantially trapezoidal. A fluid dispensing system, comprising: a cartridge mounting assembly with a plurality of fluid dispensing cartridge mounting stations, each of which includes a cartridge mounting feature; a plurality of fluid dispensing cartridges including a reservoir and a fluid dispensing assembly including a metering chamber and a deformable element that is configured to change the volume of the metering chamber when deformed, the cartridges are mounted to the respective assembly stations; and a sample holder assembly configured to hold a plurality of tissue samples substantially below the fluid dispensing assembly, with the cartridge mounting characteristics formed to fit a cross-sectional shape. of a corresponding fluid dispensing cartridge. A fluid dispensing system according to claim 17, wherein the cartridge mounting feature is an opening. The fluid dispensing system of claim 17, wherein the cartridge mounting feature is an indentation. A fluid dispensing system according to claim 17, wherein the cartridge mount assembly comprises at least two mounting stations with cartridge mounting capabilities of different shapes. A fluid dispensing system according to claim 17, wherein each of said mounting stations includes a cartridge retention feature configured to selectively lock a cartridge mounting feature. Fluid dispensing system according to claim 21, wherein the cartridge mounting feature is a mounting tab and the cartridge holding feature is a slot configured to receive the mounting tab and Provide a friction fit between the mounting tab and the friction feature.